From Daily Mail
Bringing a cat into your home can be a rewarding experience. You gain a new family member and provide a safe shelter for an animal in need. But, too often people go into the adoption process without knowing all the facts. Here are 10 interesting points of note about adopting a cat.
Black cats DO get adopted
Even though the perception of bad luck hangs over their heads, adoption rates for black cats have been on the upside, according to the ASPCA. A study that surveyed 14 regions in the U.S. found that black cat adoptions trump those of gray cats and brown cats. The charcoal-hued felines made up 31% of adoptions while gray cats and brown cats made up 20% and 18%. Black Cat Appreciation Day is celebrated on August 17th.
Tuxedo cats need more love
Distinguished by their black and white fur, tuxedo cats appear to be the least popular of adoptions, according to a study by Pricenomics. Meanwhile, the same study claims gray cats and brown cats slightly edge out the adoptions of tuxedo cats.
While the amount of shelter cats that are euthanized has declined over the years, the numbers are still bleak. According to the ASPCA, 860,000 cats are put down every year.
Cats and dogs are adopted at roughly the same rate
The ASPCA counts 1.6 million cats and 1.6 million dogs are able to find their forever homes each year.
There is an application process
Yes, it’s true, tons of animals need to be adopted, but the application process ensures that they get sent to the best-fit homes. You’ll have to prove your worth by explaining why you want to adopt and describe your current home life.
Shelter cats return to their homes less often than shelter dogs
The ASPCA says 710,000 animals enter shelters as strays every year. Of that group, 620,000 dogs go home while just 90,000 cats return to their owners.
Cats need time to get adjusted
Adopted cats might hide for a while in their new homes and they might not eat much for the first few days as they get acclimated to their new surroundings.
Cats are often not themselves at shelters
Adult cats will accept a new kitty faster than they will another adult cat
Cats are naturally territorial, which explains why it might take some time before your current cat is cool with a new addition. An adult cat may accept a kitty a little faster.
Pet homelessness can be curbed if you do your part
It is recommended to spay or neuter your new cat to avoid unwanted animals in the long run.
